DermNet NZ

Roseola

What is roseola?

Roseola is a disease caused by at least two viruses, human herpes virus type 6 (HHV-6) and possibly type 7 (HHV-7). These viruses are in the same family as the cold sore virus (causing herpes simplex and genital herpes) and the varicella zoster virus (causing chickenpox and shingles). These viruses have only been identified in recent years and we are still learning about the full range of diseases caused by them.

Roseola is characterised by high fever lasting for 3-5 days, runny nose, irritability and tiredness. As the fever subsides a rash (exanthem) may appear on the face and body.

Roseola is also known by the names roseola infantum and exanthem subitum.

Who gets roseola?

Roseola is most commonly seen in children between 6 months and 3 years of age. Most children will have had roseola by the age of 2 years. Roseola is rarely seen in adults, as infection during childhood probably confers lifelong immunity to the disease. Repeat attacks have been known to occur but are not common.

How is roseola spread?

Roseola is spread from person to person via respiratory fluids or saliva of infected individuals. The exact period an infected person is contagious for is unclear but it is most likely spread during the febrile phase of the illness when there are no outward signs that the child is infected with the virus. The incubation period for roseola is approximately 9-10 days after exposure.

What are the signs and symptoms of roseola?

In many cases of roseola, the child appears well with few or no signs or symptoms. Typical cases are characterised by the following:

Starts on trunk and may spread to involve the neck, face, arms and legs

Non-itchy, painless and does not blister

May fade within a few hours or persist for as long as 2-3 days

In some cases, a child may be infected with the virus and never develop the rash. Less commonly, the rash may appear without a preceding fever. In most cases, particularly if fever is low, the child is well. In about 5-15% of young children, high fevers may trigger febrile seizures.

How is roseola diagnosed?

Because roseola is usually mild and self-limiting, diagnosis is usually solely based on the characteristic history and physical examination.

What is the treatment of roseola?

There is no specific treatment for roseola. The disease is usually mild and self-limiting. Rest, maintaining fluid intake and paracetamol for fever is all that is usually required. No treatment is necessary for the rash as it does not itch or hurt and fades spontaneously.

What are the complications from roseola?

Complications are rare with roseola in most children. The most common complication is febrile seizures/convulstions that may occur in 5-15% of children. These are triggered by the high fevers of roseola and may be alarming when seen for the first time. Signs of a febrile seizure include:

Loss of consciousness

Jerking or twitching movements in the arms, legs or face for 2 to 3 minutes

Wet or soiled pants in an unconscious, toilet-trained child

Irritability

These seizures are brief and not dangerous. However, you should have your child examined by a doctor if one happens.